Virgilio Abulencia Solis, age 74, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Monday, January 7, 2019, at James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, Florida. He was born November 28, 1944, in Calasiao, Philippines to the late Eliseo and Lourdes Solis. He grew up in a loving family with three brothers, Graciano Solis, Luis Solis and Flor Solis; and two sisters, Monica Catabay and Catalina Perez. He was a 1953 Calasiao High School graduate, and then enrolled into the Merchant Marine College in Manila. On May 8, 1964, he entered the US Navy through the Stewardship Program which took him all over the world. He proudly served for over 23 years as a Mess Management Specialist. His service included more than twelve years at sea aboard the USS Turner Joy, USS Vancouver and USS Coral Sea. He was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (two Awards), Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Navy Good Conduct Medal (five Awards), Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze stars, Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was honorably discharged on December 2, 1987. Virgilio enjoyed retirement life - raising chickens and roosters, playing the lottery and watching sports, especially boxing. On January 24, 1970, Virgilio married the love of his life, Gloria, who preceded him in death. They lived in California, Texas, and Iceland before retiring in Milton, Florida. Virgilio and Gloria had three children, Virgilio is survived by his three children; and leaves behind nine grandchildren to cherish his memory, Raylene Solis, Colson Baggs, Risalyn Solis, Caden Solis, Sarah Baggs, Tristen Solis, Ean Solis, Ronan Baggs and Adelyn Solis. We grieve with sadness and have heavy hearts but we are at peace knowing that our Dad is with God and reunited with our Mom. Our Dad was a simple man, never complained and loved his family with all his heart. His sister, Catalina, said it best, “Your Dad had a big heart and kind soul. He changed the lives of the Solis household in Calasiao and in Manaoag, Philippines. He was a man of few words and more actions. His priority is FAMILY FIRST.” We love you Dad and we will miss your smile and love. Visitation will be on January 16, 2019, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m., Rosary at 6:30 p.m. at Lewis Funeral Home, Pace, Florida. Funeral services will be January 17, 2019, Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Milton, Florida, with Father Lech officiating. Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. at Barrancas National Cemetery, NAS Pensacola, Florida. The Family wishes to thank the nurses, doctors and Hospice unit staff at James A. Haley Veterans Medical Center for the love and care given to our Dad, brother and grandpa during his time of illness. The family requests memorial donations may be made in Virgilio and Gloria Solis’ name to the American Heart Association. GIVE ONLINE: www2.heart.org BY PHONE: 1-800-AHA-USA1 DONATIONS BY MAIL: American Heart Association 7272 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75231